The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has strongly criticised the Niger State Government for threatening to close down Badeggi FM 90.1 and demolish its building.
Badeggi FM, a private radio station based in Minna, has reportedly been under pressure from Governor Umaru Bago’s administration, which is accused of trying to silence the station.
In a statement signed by NUJ National President, Alhassan Abdullahi, the union described the government’s action as “a clear case of intimidation and an attack on press freedom.”
“These threats to Badeggi FM 90.1 are disturbing and show a dangerous abuse of power,” Abdullahi said. “Moves like this weaken democracy and send a frightening signal to other independent media outlets.”
The NUJ reminded the state government that only the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has the legal power to regulate, license, or penalise any broadcasting station in Nigeria.
“No state government has the authority to interfere with how a media house operates or threaten its property,” Abdullahi stated. “If there are any complaints against a station, it is the NBC’s job to investigate and take action—following proper procedures.”
He added that press freedom is guaranteed in the Constitution and is crucial for any healthy democracy.
“Journalists must be allowed to do their work without fear of threats or politically driven attacks. We urge Governor Bago to drop these threats immediately and let the right channels handle any issues,” Abdullahi said.
The NUJ also called on civil society groups, professional bodies, and the public to stand against any form of government overreach that targets the media.
“We won’t sit quietly while media organisations and journalists are bullied for doing their jobs,” the union warned.
